| I want to start a small business - what are my first
steps?
Your first step should be to make an appointment with an SBDC
Business Advisor. Their services are free and confidential.
To find the advisor in your area,
click here. Prior to your first visit, review the “Checklist for Starting A Business”. It
is also helpful for the business advisor if you try putting
some of your ideas down in writing for them to review.
I have heard that grant money is available - how can
I find our more about it?
There are several web sites that where you can search for
grants. Grant money is rarely available to for-profit ventures
as a source of capital.
The Foundation Center
Senator
Leahys Grants Assistance Page
Senator
Jeffords Grants Assistance Page
U.S. Small
Business Administration Federal Grant Resources
How do I register my business name?
If you are going to do business under a name other
than your own, you need to register your trade name with the
Secretary of State and after the name has been granted, with
the Town Clerk. To register your name with the Secretary
of State, click
here or call (802) 828-2386.
How do I know what taxes are required for my businesses?
Once you start your business, you will have to start paying
certain taxes to both the federal government and the State
of Vermont. The specific taxes you are required to pay
or remit depend on your type of business.
Do I need to obtain a Federal Identification Number?
Sole proprietorships without employees can use the proprietor's
social security number as a business identification number,
providing he or she uses his or her own name in the business.
If using a different name, and /or hiring employees, obtain
a federal identification number from the Internal Revenue
Service (Form SS-4). To download the form,click
here
How do I obtain health insurance?
Chambers of Commerce - many provide group health insurance
for their members.
National Association of for the Self Employed.
What do I need to know about having employees?
For information on the regulations of wages and hours, Vermont
Occupational Safety and Health Act rules, Vermont Workers
Compensation Program, Unemployment Compensation, and State
Labor Relations Act Provisions, click
here.
How do I know what licenses or permits I need
for my business?
Depending on your business, you may need to apply for the
privilege of engaging in a certain profession, business or
accupation with the Secretary of State. click
here for more information. For information on other
state licenses, permits and regulations, contact the Agency
of Natural Resources Permit Specialistsfor your region.
Permit information is also found in the book The
Vermont Permit Handbook published by the Agnecy of Natural
Resources.
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